BREAKING: JAMB Sets 80% Requirement for Under-16 Candidates Seeking 2026 Admission

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has clarified the conditions under which candidates below the age of 16 may be considered for admission during the 2026/2027 academic session. Under JAMB’s 2026 admission guidelines, the general minimum age for admission into tertiary institutions is 16 years by September 30, 2026. However, candidates below that age may be considered under an exceptional-admission process if they demonstrate the required academic readiness. JAMB’s 2026 guidelines state that underage candidates seeking an exceptional admission waiver must score not less than 80% in each required assessment.
The assessments listed by JAMB include:
– UTME
– A’Level, where applicable
– Post-UTME (PUTME)
– SSCE
– Exceptional Candidate Assessment
The requirement means that an under-16 candidate cannot qualify simply by performing exceptionally in UTME alone; the candidate must meet the stipulated threshold across the applicable assessments. JAMB says candidates below the general minimum age will undergo an intensive evaluation to determine whether they qualify for the exceptional-admission waiver. The board has also stated that the UTME results of underage candidates will only be released after completion of the relevant evaluation process. For the 2026/2027 admission cycle, the normal minimum admission age remains 16 years, while the exceptional route is specifically for candidates who meet JAMB’s additional requirements. JAMB’s current website also confirms 16 as the minimum admission age. Parents and candidates should be careful about individuals promising to secure admission for underage candidates through unofficial means. The exceptional-admission process is subject to JAMB’s requirements and evaluation. Candidates should therefore rely on JAMB and their chosen institution for accurate information. If you will not be 16 by September 30, 2026, your admission is not automatically impossible — but you must meet JAMB’s exceptional-admission conditions before you can be considered.